Candidiasis (Cutaneous Candidiasis)

Medically reviewed by The Dermatologists and written by Dr. Alexander Börve

Last updated on March 01, 2024

Candidiasis is a general term for fungal infections marked by redness and itching around the mouth or genitals. Oral candidiasis, called thrush, involves white spots on the mouth and tongue, sore throat, and difficulty swallowing. Candidiasis in the female genitals is called a yeast infection (Also known as vaginal candidiasis). Oral candidiasis (thrush) is most common in infants, the elderly and those with a weakened immune system.

There are over 20 species of Candida yeasts that can cause infection in humans. The most common type is Candida albicans. 90% of people with HIV/AIDS develop Candida infections.

Symptoms of Candidiasis

Symptoms of candidiasis are varied, but most include redness, rashes, blisters and itching of the affected area. This is most commonly found in between fingers and toes, and under the breasts. Such infection in the genital area with the association is associated with vaginitis and balanitis.

Vaginal itching and irritation with a white discharge resembling cottage cheese are indicators of vaginal yeast infection.

Symptoms of Vaginal Candidiasis: Pruritic, bright-pink rash with satellite papules and pustules, accompanied by ‘cheese-like’ or watery discharge

Oral candidiasis is marked by white spots in the mouth and on the tongue. These spots form cream white patches. Painful cracks at the corners of the mouth is almost a common symptom for thrush. This can cause difficulty swallowing and redness.

Oral Candidiasis (Thrush) – Cream white patches and spots on the tongue and mouth

Candidiasis (Cutaneous Candidiasis): Pruritic Rash with Satellite Papules and Pustules in the Male Genital Area Under the Scrotum.

Cutaneous candidiasis on skin, showing a distinctive pruritic rash with red, inflamed areas, satellite papules, and pustules. The infection typically appears as bright-pink lesions on the skin, indicative of fungal growth and irritation

Experiencing similar symptoms? Don’t wait, ask a board certified dermatologist online now for expert advice and peace of mind.

Candidial Balanitis

Candidial Balanitis characterized by white patches on the glans (head) of the penis, caused by an overgrowth of Candida yeast. Secondary bacterial infection can occasionally accompany this condition, resulting in small purulent ulcers.

Candidal Balanitis, showing the typical signs of a Candida yeast infection on the glans penis. This condition, caused by an overgrowth of Candida, manifests as inflammation and white, patchy lesions on the head of the penis

Candidiasis is called Candidial Balanitis when the Candida yeast infection specifically affects the glans (head) of the penis. Balanitis refers to the inflammation of the glans, and when this inflammation is caused by an overgrowth of the Candida species (typically Candida albicans), it is termed “Candidial Balanitis.” This condition is more likely to occur in men who are uncircumcised, have poor hygiene, have diabetes, or have a compromised immune system. It can cause symptoms like redness, itching, white patches, swelling, and discomfort on the affected area.

What can I do?

Some studies suggest that reducing sugar in the diet may help prevent yeast infections.

It may also help to reduce consumption of substances with high concentrations of yeast, such as alcohol, fruits, potatoes and pork, to name a few. Some people choose to go on the “Candida diet” to prevent candidiasis. However, it is not clear whether the diet actually gets rid of Candida or helps people feel better because it is a healthful diet.

In one study, a combination of bee-honey and yogurt has a high cure rate for candida among pregnant women.

Ask a board certified dermatologist online at First Derm right now for a quick consultation.

When should I seek medical care for Candidiasis?

Candidiasis on the skin is not life-threatening, but you should seek medical advice if the over-the-counter medications do not improve the situation.

Treatment for Candidiasis

Antifungal creams and suppositories can cure genital candidiasis, and antifungal mouthwash and pills can kill yeast in the mouth. Medications that are available over-the-counter include creams and suppositories, such as miconazole (Monistat), ticonazole (Vagistat), and clotrimazole (Gyne-Lotrimin).
Image Source: Human tongue infected with oral candidiasis. From: Wikipedia Commons. By: James Heilman, MD. CC-BY-SA 3.0. Watermarked from original.